Edith Rienstra
Unfair, incomprehensible . . .
In 2016 I finally found my long lost relatives in the USA. We corresponded and met one of our family members in The Netherlands, where I live. And last year me and my family met the whole family at the house of Sophia’s brother in California. Sophia and her brother are my second cousins once removed. We loved getting to know them and spending time with them. It felt so good being there and sharing family stories. We had such a great time together that we forgot to take pictures. For which we are sorry now. We only just met and now we have to say goodbye already. So never take for granted the people you love. Be thankful for today, because in one moment, your entire life could change.
There’s love within our family tree
and happiness abounds
It’s roots are deeply planted
in rich and fertile ground
We enjoy the rays of sunlight,
and endure the winds and rain,
and when a leaf falls from our tree,
together we share the pain.
God gave us earthly families
and never did, intend,
that bonds of love built on earth
upon our death would end
For when our life is over
and from earth our souls will flee
one by one, leaf by leaf
He’ll rejoin our family tree
Sophia, we will miss you dearly. Wishing your family strength for today and hope for tomorrow. Though our words can do little, we hope our thoughts and prayers will support you at this time.
Love, Edith Rienstra and family